On 12 October 2026, Indigenous people reclaiming lands from the territories of Térraba, Salitre, Cabagra, and China Kichá denounced the exclusion of their organizations and traditional authorities from decision-making spaces related to territorial management. These denunciations were made during the discussion “Indigenous Resistance Lives in Reclaimed Territories,” held at the University of Costa Rica (UCR) and organized by the Costa Rican Association for Human Rights (Acodehu), the Voces Nuestras Association, the South-South Struggle Coordinator, the Green Bloc, the Socio-Environmental Kiosks Program, and the Ecumenical Department of Research (DEI).
Participants questioned why state institutions prioritize certain community leaders while neglecting traditional Indigenous organizations, councils of elders, and families involved in land reclamation processes. Vianney Figueroa, a member of the Iriria Satkok Council of Cabagra, denounced the state for favoring individuals it considers aligned with its interests and disregarding the unique forms of organization and worldview of Indigenous peoples. Felipe Figueroa Morales, of the Ditso Iriria Ajkonuk Wakpa Council of Salitre, pointed to the persistent conflicts arising from the occupation of Indigenous lands by non-Indigenous people and the lack of consultation regarding territorial decisions.
The complaints also addressed administrative obstacles that directly affect the living conditions of the families involved in land reclamation. María Morales Nájera and Jeimy Vigil Lescano, residents of the reclaimed farm Crün Shürin in Térraba, stated that the Integral Development Association (ADI) of the territory has denied them the documents and certifications necessary to apply for housing subsidies, electricity connections, and veterinary operating permits for their productive activities. According to their testimonies, the issuance of these documents is contingent upon their relationship with the association’s leadership, creating disparities in access to services and institutional procedures.
The land reclamation activists also warned about the consequences of territorial violence, particularly for women, girls, boys, and adolescents. Joselyn Ríos, from China Kichá, pointed out the need to address the emotional effects of violence through culturally appropriate services. Similarly, Clarita Quiel, from Cabagra, highlighted land reclamation as a means to strengthen food sovereignty and recover traditional agricultural practices.
Subsequently, on October 23, new concerns arose from land reclamation families in Térraba regarding a proposed land tenure regulation promoted by the ADI (Agency for Land Reclamation), whose provisions included restrictions on access to benefits and services for people considered irregular occupants. These complaints amplify concerns about the participation of land reclamation families in decisions that affect their territories and living conditions.